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November 3rd, 2011
With larger-caliber rifles, manual bore-sighting (with your eyeballs) is not that difficult. Just remove the bolt, and look through the bore at the target. It helps to have a well-illuminated, high-contrast circle target about 8″ to 12″ in diameter. When you’ve got the target centered, then stabilize your gun on the rest so it doesn’t move from that position. Because bore-sighting the old-fashioned way is not that difficult with larger calibers, we’re not sure laser bore-sighters and other gadgets are really needed.
 However, with smaller calibers (.17, .204, .223), manual bore-sighting is not so easy. Much less light makes its way down the smaller-diameter bore, and it’s more difficult to find the target on the background. That’s why we welcome two new products from Sightmark. This Texas-based company has developed in-chamber laser boresights for 17 HMR and .22LR rimfire guns. The tiny boresights are correctly dimensioned so they fit in rimfire chambers just like normal 17 HMR or .22LR cartridges. With the boresight in place, simply flick a switch on the battery pack and the laser dot shows exactly where the rifle is aimed. The dot is roughly 2″ in diameter at 100 yards.
Sightmark rimfire boresights are made from brass, so they are gentle on your chambers. The separate battery pack holds two (2) AAA batteries, which will power the laser for about 30 hours. We like the fact that the battery pack is separate. That makes it easier to swap in new batteries, AND, importantly, the battery pack makes it obvious when the boresight is in use. That lessens the chance that someone could mistakenly try to chamber a live round with the boresight in place.
Sightmark Rimfire Boresights Developed After Extensive Comparison Testing
“We tested every competitor’s chamber boresight for the 17 HMR and .22LR currently on the market and found that they did not work well, so we decided to create one that would,” said James Sellers, president of Sightmark. “Our Sightmark 17 HMR and .22LR boresights are as accurate as our other award-winning chamber boresights, so there’s no guessing if you’re on target”. Sightmark 17 HMR and .22LR Rimfire boresights retail for $47.99 and can be ordered directly from the Sightmark Online Catalog.
November 2nd, 2011
Today, Savage Arms will post previews of its new 2012 product line-up throughout the day, starting at noon Eastern Time. Items will be posted one-by-one. For the “first looks” at new Savage guns, go to Savage’s official Facebook Page, http://www.facebook.com/savagearms. We will publish the new product descriptions here, as they are revealed.
NEW Item Five: Model 11/111 Lady Hunter
The New Model 11/111 Lady Hunter has a female-friendly geometry that features a shorter length of pull, higher comb, shorter reach from pistol grip to trigger, slimmer fore-end and lighter front-end weight.
NEW Item Four: Left-Hand Model 220 Slug Gun
For southpaws, Savage had added a left-hand model 220 20 gauge Slug Gun. Suggested retail is $549.00. This seemed to stir quite a bit of interest among Savage’s Facebook fans.
NEW Item Three: “Rascal” Compact Bolt-Action Rifle for Kids – Just $174
Savage says: “You’ve seen other micro-sized guns but not one like this. It is safer (manual safety, accutrigger and can be unloaded without pulling the trigger). It’s easier to use (feed ramp, cocks on bolt lift) and it’s more accurate — given its accutrigger and adjustable peep sights. The “Rascal” will be available in several colors, to be determined later. Suggested retail is a mere $174.00.
NEW ITEM Two: Stevens Model 320 Shotgun
This is the new Stevens Model 320 Security Pump. It features a pistol grip stock, rotary bolt and Ghost Ring sights. Suggested retail is $260. Whoa — at that price, Savage is going to sell a ton of these if it proves reliable. People will be jazzed by the pistol grip stock and Ghost Rings. If you want a standard stock (which is actually more ergonomic for many folks), Stevens offers that as well (lower photo).
Click Images to Zoom
NEW ITEM One: Trophy Hunter XP Packages
These come with a 3-9×40 Nikon BDC scope, which is a considerable upgrade over previous packages we have offered. These scopes are compatible with Nikon’s proprietary Spot-On ballistic software. We anticipate actual sales prices to be $499.00 to $599.00 for the blue/syn, $549.00 to $649.00 for blue/wood and $599.00 to $699.00 for stainless/synthetic.
November 1st, 2011
Sinclair Int’l is now selling a new line of O-ring-equipped aluminum jags made by The Custom Shop (TCS). These unique TCS O-Ring Jags are crafted from aluminum so they won’t react to solvents. The O-rings hold the patch firmly against the bore surface to efficiently clean powder, lead, copper, and plastic fouling. There are shapes and sizes for pistols, rifles and shotguns. Rifle jags come in sizes .22 (J22), .243 (J2436mm), .257 (J25725Cal), .270-6.8mm (J27068mm), .284 (J2847mm), .308 (J30RP), .338 (J338RP), and .50 Cal (J50). The “RP” models do double-duty for large-caliber rifles and pistols.
 
We haven’t tried these jags yet, but we think the O-rings may be a good idea. As with any aluminum-bodied jag, be sure to keep the jags clean, as hard particles and debris can become embedded in the aluminum surface. You don’t want to drag embedded debris across your delicate rifling. The TCS jags range in price from $9.95 to $10.95.
November 1st, 2011
Lyman has introduced a handy, new cordless power tool with fitted case-prep accessories. This kit can speed up your case-prep chores. The handheld, high-torque rechargeable driver runs at the correct moderate speed for deburring and chamfering. The matched accessories all have hex shafts that simply snap in and out of the driver (much like with a cordless screwdriver). The full kit, Lyman part number 7777758, includes the power driver and seven (7) accessories: two case neck brushes, two double-ended primer pocket tools (large and small), an outside 45° neck-chamfer tool, an inside 30° neck-chamfer tool, and, finally, a combo standard/phillips screw-driver bit.
In the photo above, the inside chamfer cutter is fitted in the power driver. This chamferer (and all other accessories) can be quickly and easily swapped in and out of the driver with one hand. You don’t have to rotate a chuck or use a chuck key. As sold by Sinclair Int’l, the Lyman Power Case Prep Tool Kit (Driver plus all accessories) costs just $51.95.
Product tip from EdLongrange. We welcome user submissions.
October 31st, 2011
 ShotMuse3 is a handy new App for iPhone users. Functioning like a log-book, this multi-purpose App can record shot locations, scores, and wind values during practice. In addition, ShotMuse3 has built-in databases that can list your ammo supplies and your firearms inventory. (However, for security reasons, you may decide NOT to place a list of your firearms in your iPhone.) ShotMuse3, priced at just $3.99, can be purchased via the Apple App Store. For more information, visit the Apple App Store or contact developer Mike Lersbak: auxxpad [at] gmail.com or (509) 435-1640
Save Chron Data to Your iPhone
One feature we really like is the Chronograph Mode. We often use a PVM-21. This is a great chronograph, but the PVM’s data recording software is complicated and buggy. So, we usually dispense with a laptop and record our chron data manually. With ShotMuse’s Chrono Mode, you can record your chrono results at the range, and then email the data to your main computer. Note — you must still manually input shot values into the App –ShotMuse3 does NOT automatically connect with the chrono.
ShotMuse 3 Functions and Features:
- Target Practice Mode – This handy feature lets you record shot placements and shot values during practice. As with a manual log-book, you can record wind value and direction for each string, along with temperature and other conditions. A variety of target types can be selected the ShotMuse Target Archive.
- Chronograph Mode – Input shot velocities from your chronograph when doing load development. Weather, distance and range can also be recorded with each string.
- Weapons Database – Keep track of your weapons including weapon data, shot count, strings shot, and any other notes or information you want to record.
- Ammo Database – Track the ammo you use — both store-bought and your own reloads. You can also store notes and photos.
- Timer Mode – The built-in shot timer can record your shot strings. Both individual shot times/intervals and total string time can be recorded. This is useful for action pistol shooters and 3-Gun competitors.
October 29th, 2011
Savage Arms will roll out its new 2012 line-up of firearms on November 2, 2011. That’s just a few days away. The initial release will be made via Savage’s Facebook Page.
Right now Savage is being very tight-lipped about the new product line. However, Savage posted a teaser showing a gun case marked “Classified” — challenging Facebook readers to guess what might be unveiled next week. So far, reader guesses include:
- An AR-type gun in .223 Rem AND 7.62×39.
- A big boomer in .408 Cheytac, .416 Barrett or 50 BMG.
- A single-shot Model 12 Target rifle in 6.5×47 LAPUA.
- A Mini-14 type rifle in 6.5 Grendel.
- A “Zombie Zapper” for use with Hornady’s Zombie Max ammo.
- A lightweight survival-type .22 LR rifle.
- A 300 AAC Blackout bolt-gun.
- A 17 Hornet Varminter.
What do you guys think? We suspect the “Classified” rifle will be a bolt gun with rails and a detachable magazine, possibly with a collapsible stock. Consumer interest in “tactical”-style rifles is very high right now. We can expect Savage to deliver something that caters to market demand.
Story tip by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
October 29th, 2011
Stiller Precision Firearms is now offering hard-anodized, billet aluminum bottom metal systems that work with Accuracy International (AI) magazines in Rem-style actions. Currently a short-action version is offered (for both .223 Rem and .308 Win cartridge sizes) and a long-action unit is in the works. Bottom metal for the .223 Rem fits a 10-round magazine. For the .308 Win, there are three mag options: 5-round centerfeed, 10-round centerfeed, and a 10-round, .308 double-column mag. The double-column magazines won’t work in the standard Remington action, but are perfectly suited for dedicated actions such as Stiller’s new TAC30 A/W. Current MSRP for Stiller’s DBM Bottom Metal is $295.00 with one (1) 5-round magazine.
Jerry Stiller consulted many tactical shooters before finalized the design of his new bottom metal. It contains many smart features that enhance reliability/function and simplify the installation process:
- Strong, billet aluminum construction with Mil-Spec Type 3 hard anodizing.
- Flared magwell allows fast, positive insertion of Accuracy International magazines.
- Computer-optimized truss pattern reduces weight while retaining strength and stiffness.
- Works with all commonly-available triggers for Rem and Rem-clone actions.
- “Exact-Fit” pillars and screws included to ensure a perfect fit and easy installation.
- NO SPECIAL INLET is required on the tang ends. Stiller Bottom Metal will fit into a standard BDL bottom inlet in most stocks (must meet Remington specified depths). The only cutting needed is around the magazine box. Stiller has beefed up the material in this area so that a high-precision cut is not needed.
Story tip by EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.
October 27th, 2011
SSG Daniel Horner of the USAMU used the new 300 AAC Blackout (300 BLK) cartridge to win first place overall in the Tactical Optics division of the 2011 USPSA Multigun National Championship, held outside of Las Vegas, Nevada. Horner’s choice of cartridge allowed him to satisfy “Major Power Factor” requirements while using his regular AR15 rifle and magazines. The only important change was replacing the 5.56mm barrel with a .30-caliber barrel.
The 300 AAC Blackout was created by Advanced Armament Corp. and Remington primarily for the military as a way to shoot .30-caliber bullets from the M4/AR15 platform while using standard magazines. As explained by Robert Silvers, AAC’s R&D Director: “Now there is a way to shoot 30 caliber from your AR while still using normal magazines with full capacity. Even the bolt stays the same, and all that changes is the barrel.” For more information visit www.300aacblackout.com and download the 300 BLK Cartridge Information Guide (PDF).
The concept of putting a .30-caliber bullet in a shortened 223 case has been done before, but not as an industry-wide standard that anyone can make products for, royalty-free. SAAMI, the industry standards organization, adopted and standardized the AAC 300 Blackout earlier this year. The SAAMI diagram for the 300 BLK is shown below.
300 Blackout SAAMI Cartridge Specification
Affordable Factory 300 BLK Ammo is Available
Remington now sells a variety of 300 BLK ammo: 1) 125 grain open-tip match with a custom Sierra bullet; 2) 220gr subsonic, and 3) 125gr AccuTip (photo below). While the 300 BLK is easy (and inexpensive) to reload, Remington and AAC recognized that most people are not reloaders. So Remington will be budget-priced UMC-brand 300 BLK ammo through at just $12.99 per box — that’s less than most other rifle cartridges than are more powerful than the .223.
The 300 AAC Blackout has been touted as an important new hunting round, but we see it more as a specialized “rule-beater” 30-cal option that lets 3-Gun competitors “make major” with a low-recoil cartridge that also offers long barrel life. For those who need to run a .30-caliber cartridge from a standard AR15 platform (as opposed to the AR10), the 300 AAC Blackout makes some sense. But for hunters using a bolt gun, there are any number of tried and true options, such as the 7.62×39, .30-30, and, of course, the .308 Winchester (7.62×51 NATO).
Other 300 BLK Resource
300 BLK Overview with Ballistics and Ammo Info READ FIRST.
300 BLK by AAC: An Introduction by Paul Erhardt.
300 AAC Blackout Ammo Review
AAC .300 BLK AR-15, The Gun Blog.
October 24th, 2011
 Here’s an example of a major manufacturer stepping up to help our service men and women. A portion of the sales price of Federal® Ammunition’s new Top Gun® 12-gauge target load shotshells will go directly to support the Wounded Warrior Project. According to Federal: “An on-box royalty program sends proceeds from every sale of the patriotic [red, white, and blue] Top Gun product directly to support Wounded Warriors.”
The mission of the Wounded Warrior Project is “to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet the needs of injured service members.” To learn more about the Wounded Warrior Project, visit WoundedWarriorProject.org.
Top Gun® Target Shotshells Specifications
Top Gun Target loads, product TGL12U, are designed for high-volume shooters. These red, white and blue shotshells are made to provide consistent performance at reasonable prices. They loaded with
1 1/8 ounces of #8 shot, spec’d at 2.72 Dram equivalent to run at 1175 fps.
October 23rd, 2011
 On our main Accurateshooter.com website, you’ll find a comprehensive review of the STM system for cleaning cartridge brass with stainless media. To clean brass with stainless media, start with five pounds of small stainless pins sold by StainlessTumblingMedia.com. Place these along with a gallon of water, a little liquid cleaner, and two pounds of cartridge brass in a rotary tumbler, and run the machine for one to four hours.
CLICK HERE for Stainless Media Brass Cleaning System Review
Forum Member Tests STM System
Our reviewer, Forum member Jason Koplin, purchased the STM media and a new Thumler’s Tumbler. He then tested the STM cleaning procedure on his own brass, including some extremely dirty and tarnished “range pick-up” brass. Jason was thoroughly impressed with how well the STM process worked — as you can see from the “before and after” photos below. Brass which looked like it was ready for the scrap heap was restored to “like-new” appearance. The process works equally well on both rifle brass and pistol brass. Jason observed that one surprise benefit of the STM cleaning procedure is a big reduction in noise. Jason said the water-filled rotary tumbler was much quieter than his vibratory tumblers.
You’ll want to read Jason’s full review which shows more before and after images. In addition, the full article features a “how-to” video created by Forum member Cory Dickerson, the young man who pioneered the stainless tumbling process and founded STM. The video shows how to load brass, media, and cleaner solutions into the tumbler, and how to separate media from brass once the tumbling is done. The illustration below shows how to access the article from our new home page. Note that you can click on other featured articles as well.
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